WILMINGTON, Mass. (January 2016) – Uniform programs have long been a tool in helping improve and maintain business image by effectively promoting a company brand and projecting a professional image. And research continues to support an overall consumer preference for being serviced by uniformed employees. Uniforms can also increase the likelihood of customers buying from a provider with uniformed employees, offering a distinct competitive advantage. But when it comes to implementing a uniform program in the workplace, businesses have several options to consider, including directly purchasing uniforms or contracting a managed uniform and textile rental service program.

A recent survey conducted by the TRSA, an international organization representing textile services industry companies, asked uniform rental decision makers in the industrial, hospitality, healthcare, and food and beverage industries who currently rent uniforms what reasons influence their decisions to contract for a managed uniform program. Top responses include:

Garment maintenance – With a managed program, uniforms are maintained, washed, and replaced by the service provider.

Convenience – A contracted program eliminates the need to manage a uniform program in-house.

Contamination contact – Industrial laundering programs are better able to handle proper wash requirements for uniforms that come into contact with food or hazardous materials.

Uniform program management – Uniforms are often used as a level of security and safety for employees, and the service provider helps in managing the process through inventory, maintenance, repair, etc.

“These points are all the things we ask potential customers to consider when discussing uniform rental programs,” says Adam Soreff, director of marketing and communications for UniFirst Corporation, a leading company that provides work uniforms and business services to diverse industries throughout North America. “There are many conveniences offered by a managed uniform program, and this survey feedback reflects those points we stress. Clearly businesses are recognizing the value in freeing themselves of the ongoing time and maintenance requirements that go along with a self-managed uniform program.”

Soreff also points to regulatory compliance issues surrounding industries that require proper safety garments for their uniform programs, especially those that relate to flame resistant (FR), high visibility, healthcare, and food processing uniforms. “Through managed rental programs, a reputable uniform service supplier can supply the right garments for the jobs at hand to help ensure workwear compliance programs remain in good standing.”

For those considering a uniform rental program, whatever the reason – business and brand image, safety concerns, or cost savings – these seven influencers cited by uniform rental decision makers could be a key component in their own decision-making process.

About UniFirst
Headquartered in Wilmington, Mass., UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF) is a North American leader in the supply and servicing of uniform and workwear programs, as well as the delivery of facility service programs. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also provides first aid and safety products, and manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries. UniFirst manufactures its own branded workwear, protective clothing, and floorcare products, and with over 225 service locations, 275,000 customer locations, and 12,000 employee Team Partners, the company outfits more than 1.5 million workers each business day. For more information, contact UniFirst at 800.455.7654 or visit www.unifirst.com.